Looking for a mouthwatering dish that brings together the best of summer's bounty? Our Zucchini and Pattypan Casserole is the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds dancing! With layers of tender vegetables, gooey cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is not just a side dish—it's a showstopper that will impress your family and friends. Ready in just one hour, this American classic is a delicious way to make the most of your garden harvest. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 2 medium pattypan squash, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis and pattypan squash thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini and pattypan squash. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Layer half of the seasoned vegetable slices on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an overlapping pattern for consistent coverage.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the first vegetable layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Add the remaining vegetable slices on top of the cheese, creating a second layer.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk and remaining shredded cheese. Pour this mixture evenly over the vegetable layers.
- Spread the breadcrumbs uniformly across the top of the casserole, creating a golden, crispy topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Produce: For the best flavor, select firm zucchinis and pattypan squash. Look for vibrant colors and avoid any that have soft spots.
- Uniform Slices: Make sure to slice the vegetables into uniform 1/4-inch rounds. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- Layering is Key: When layering the vegetables and cheese, take your time to create an overlapping pattern. This not only looks great but also helps with even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Breadcrumbs for Crunch: For an extra crunchy topping, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They’ll give your casserole a delightful texture!
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. They add a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 149kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 16mg
